Key Statutory Rules & Public Aviation Law Summary
Why airlines reject damaged luggage claims after 7 days, and how Article 17(2) and Article 31(2) of the Montreal Convention protect checked baggage.
- Under Article 17(2) of the Montreal Convention 1999, the airline is strictly liable for destruction or damage to checked baggage if the event causing the damage took place on board the aircraft or during any period the checked baggage was in the charge of the carrier.
- Under Article 31(2), the person entitled to delivery must complain to the carrier forthwith after discovery of the damage, and at the latest within 7 days from the date of receipt in the case of checked baggage.
- Photograph the broken wheels, cracked shell, torn handles, and the physical luggage tag attached to the bag immediately at the airport, and obtain a Damage PIR reference.
- Airlines cannot blanket-refuse structural wheel/handle damage by labelling it 'normal wear and tear' if the suitcase was rendered unusable while in their custody.
Related Statutory Passenger Guides:
- Bumped From an Overbooked Flight? Your Immediate Statutory Cash Rights
- Fluggastrechte bei Flugverspätung ab 3 Stunden & Annullierung (EG 261/2004)
- Vos Droits en Cas de Vol Retardé de 3h+, Annulé ou Correspondance Manquée (CE 261/2004)
- Derechos del Pasajero Aéreo: Retrasos de 3+ Horas, Cancelaciones y Equipaje (CE 261/2004)
Public Statutory Information Disclaimer: AeroStatute provides general public educational information regarding Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, UK261, the Montreal Convention 1999, Canada APPR, and US DOT regulations. This tool does not provide formal legal advice or act as a law firm.